Anti-Russian Activist's Murder Sparks Tensions in Odesa

Demian Hanul, a well-known anti-Russian activist in Ukraine, was shot dead in Odesa, with authorities not excluding Russian involvement. Hanul, involved in the 2014 Maidan revolution, previously requested police protection. A military deserter has been detained as a suspect, as investigations into the crime's motives continue.

Demian Hanul, a prominent anti-Russian campaigner, was fatally shot on Friday in Ukraine's strategic port city of Odesa. Authorities have not ruled out Russian involvement, citing the incident as a planned assassination.

Hanul, aged 31, gained prominence as a blogger and revolutionary during the 2014 protests against Ukraine's former pro-Russian leader. He was also associated with the far-right Right Sector group. The national police labeled the killing a premeditated and ordered murder via Telegram.

The Security Service detained a 46-year-old military deserter suspect, with motives being explored, including a link to Russia. A video on local Telegram appears to show the shooting, yet its authenticity remains unverified.

(With inputs from agencies.)